I've been looking for information regarding the wiring of non-permanent lighting, such as desk lamps, table lamps etc. Essentially lighting that plugs into the wall socket and is controlled by a switch. I've found plenty of information regarding permanent fixtures, which hasn't helped me much.

This lack of information has lead me to come up with two conclusions. Either there's no electrical regulation surround the wiring and use of home made lamps OR I'm searching in all the wrong places with all the wrong queries. If anyone is able to shed some light on the situation (see what I did there) it'd be much appreciated.

You need to look for the "appliance" standard. We have it at work as we make electric fence energizers (and a few other products). Essentially for a desk lamp all exposed metal must be earthed, wiring must be double insulated, you need strain relief, mains wire ends must be held in place e.g. by cable tie them together, and if any wire comes loose it may not be able to bridge the insulation between mains and low voltage. Sorry, can;t give you a copy, it is purchased and protected by a license agreement. But the cheapest place to buy it from is South Africa and you do it on-line. Virtually all countries follow the same IEC standards with only minor twists.